Hello everyone, my name is Anthony Miller. I am 22 years old and I have Autism. I was diagnosed when I was two years old and wasn't able to speak until around 4-5 years old. I have struggled with socially communicating with people my whole life. I have also struggled with dealing with the everyday routines in life such as going to the store, going to the bank, going to work, talking to strangers, etc.
Even with all these struggles in my life, I am currently a junior at West Texas A&M University where I study Mass Communication. I am the Sports Director and host of the sports talk show "Unsportsmanlike Conduct" for the college's radio station KWTS The One 91.1 FM, president of the college's National Broadcasting Society chapter, PA announcer for the college's sporting events, and sports announcer for the KWTS as well.
The doctor told my parents to throw me in the mental institution because I had "no chance of succeeding in life". I'm here to tell you to never listen to the people who tell you that you "can't do it". If you have Autism, don't let Autism hold you back from anything. You can do whatever you want in this life. Is it going to be hard? Yes it will be, but you can be successful in life if you just believe.
With that said, Autism is the best thing to ever happen to me. It has shaped me into the man that I am today. While I struggled with this myself, if it wasn't for the love and support of my family, friends, and teachers, I wouldn't be here today. I owe everything to them for all they have done for me. My family sacrificed so much in their lives to help me succeed. My friends and teachers never judged me on having Autism. Instead, they supported and cared for me.
To everyone with Autism, don't ever give up. Anything's possible in this life.
To my family, friends, and all who has helped me in my journey, thank you. I love you all.
Canyon, TX
